Cardiac arrest

A cardiac arrest is the cessation of normal circulation of the blood due to failure of the ventricles of the heart to contract effectively during systole. The resulting lack of blood supply results in cell death from oxygen starvation. Cerebral hypoxia, or lack of oxygen supply to the brain, causes victims to immediately lose consciousness and stop breathing.

Etiology

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the predominant disease process associated with sudden cardiac death in the United States. The incidence of CAD in individuals who suffer sudden cardiac death is between 64 and 90%.

Related Topics:
Coronary artery disease - United States

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